The Book of Maggie is a dark comedy play by Houston playwright, Brendan Bourque-Sheil.[1] Its world premier took place at Stages Repertory Theatre in Houston, Texas on January 20, 2016.[1] The play was subsequently produced by Death and Pretzels[2] at Nox Arca Theatre in Chicago, Illinois.[3][2]
Synopsis edit
Maggie is a suicidal young woman who has traveled to a lonely beach with the intent to commit suicide. She's astonished when she is visited by both Judas Iscariot and Pontius Pilate. Both men have their own reasons for appearing - Judas because Saint Peter promised him entrance to Heaven. Pilate was sent as well, but was given no similar promise of redemption. As the night progresses the trio is visited by Joan, who washes up on the beach.
Reception edit
The Houston Press was mixed in their opinion, writing "Impressively smart and funny in places, the play feels over-boiled and unnecessarily populated with ideas in others" but also stating that it was "impressive for such a novice playwright".[4] The Houston Chronicle was also mixed, stating "Stages deserves credit for taking the risk of a world premiere, and "The Book of Maggie" is not without its pluses and some potentially interesting ground to cover. It just needs a more purposeful roadmap for its irreverent tour of the afterlife."[5] In contrast, BroadwayWorld.com was wholly positive and called the play a "real treat".[6]
References edit
- ^ a b Lang, Katricia. "BWW Interview: Playwright Brendan Bourque-Sheil Talks BOOK OF MAGGIE, Set to Premiere at Stages Rep". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved 2016-01-28.
- ^ a b "Death & Pretzels The Basement Company". deathandpretzels. Retrieved 2022-06-17.
- ^ Maller, Max (2018-05-24). "The Book of Maggie follows an epic quest to preserve Armageddon". Chicago Reader. Retrieved 2022-06-17.
- ^ Downing, Margaret. "The Book of Maggie Examines Heaven, Hell and the Great Other". Houston Press. Retrieved 2016-01-28.
- ^ "Wacky play traipses all over afterlife's map". Houston Chronicle. Retrieved 2016-02-12.
- ^ Garza, Alexander. "BWW Review: THE BOOK OF MAGGIE Slays at Stages Repertory". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved 2016-02-12.